Shayani Ekadashi: A fast is observed on this day that worships Lord Vishnu.
Shayani Ekadashi or Ashadi Ekadashi is an auspicious eleventh lunar day of the bright fortnight (Shukla paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashadha (June - July). This holy day is of special significance to Vaishnavas, followers of the Hindu God, Lord Vishnu. It is referred by many names - Maha Ekadashi, Prathama Ekadashi, Padma Ekadashi, Devshayani Ekadashi or Devpodhi Ekadashi. It is also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi or Ashadhi. In Telugu, it is known as Toli Ekadashi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi today shared a video on the ongoing 21-day long Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari (pilgrimage) in Maharashtra's Pandharpur. In the one minute 30 second video, PM Modi explained the connection between Pandharpur town in Solapur district with Ashadhi Ekadashi.
Muhurat, Auspicious Time of Shayani Ekadashi or Ashadi Ekadashi:
Ekadashi Tithi Begins - 1:02 a.m. on July 12
Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 12:31 a.m. on July 13
Significance of Ashadhi Ekadashi or Shayani Ekadashi
It is believed that Lord Vishnu falls asleep in Ksheersagar - cosmic ocean of milk - on Shesha naga, the cosmic serpent on this day. Thus the day is also called Dev-Shayani Ekadashi or Shayani Ekadashi. Lord Vishnu awakens from his sleep four months later on Prabodhini Ekadashi - eleventh day of bright fortnight in the Hindu month Kartik (October-November). This period is known as Chaturmas and coincides with the rainy season.
How Shayani Ekadashi or Ashadhi Ekadashi Is Celebrated
The Shayani Ekadashi is marked by worshiping Lord Vishnu. The entire night is spent singing prayers and devotees fast on this holy day.
Shayani Ekadashi is the beginning of Chaturmas. Devotees start observing the Chaturmas vrata or fast to please Vishnu on this day. A fast is observed on Shayani Ekadashi. The fast demands abstinence from all grains, beans, cereals, certain vegetables like onions and certain spices.